The Amazon, measuring 6.5 million square kilometers (approximately 2.5 million square miles) is
the largest tropical ecosystem and contains the biggest network of rivers and lakes, which constitute
20% of the earth’s freshwater. The highest levels of biodiversity in the whole of the Amazon
Basin and the world have been recorded in the Ecuadorian Jungle. The border of this natural wonder
can be reached by land after a spectacular journey through breathtaking scenery or alternatively
after a 30-minute flight from Quito, the capital city of this peaceful oasis, Ecuador. Approximately a
third of the 1800 species of birds that exist in the tropical Amazon Jungle can be found here.
Lush, green jungle lies below, in this area of pristine beauty, botanists have discovered
around 450 species of trees in one hectare alone. It is a heaven to be explored with its
impressive vegetation and humid, earthy odor, along with the song of hidden frogs, darting
birds, the wind-like cries of howler monkeys and the constant buzzing and chirping of a fascinating
variety of insects. Just as a sample, more than 250 species of mammals inhabit the rainforest.
